KIAMBU: October 24, 2025
After five months of steadfast struggle, principled engagement, and unwavering solidarity, KMPDU has officially called off the doctors’ strike in Kiambu County following the signing of a Return-to-Work Formula (RTWF) with the County Government of Kiambu and the Kiambu County Public Service Board.
The agreement, brokered through the Council of Governors (CoG), marks the end of a 151-day stalemate that had disrupted healthcare services across the county. The consultative meeting was chaired by CoG Whip and Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki, alongside Health Committee Chair and Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir, in the presence of Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi and KMPDU officials led by Secretary General Dr. Davji Bhimji Atellah.
Key Gains and Commitments in the Agreement
This agreement secures crucial commitments that safeguard doctors’ welfare and restore dignity in the workplace:
Timely Salary Disbursement: Salaries will be paid promptly, and any delays in exchequer release must be formally communicated to the Union.
Payment of Salary Arrears: One month’s salary will be paid immediately, with the remaining arrears cleared in phases.
Promotion & Career Progression: Stalled promotions will be fast-tracked in accordance with public service guidelines; Job Groups M–P within 2 weeks, and Q–S within 6 weeks.
Continuous Medical Insurance Cover: The employer has committed to maintaining comprehensive medical cover for all doctors under its service.
Payment of SHA Deductions: All deductions will be remitted before the 9th of every month to prevent disruptions in medical cover.
Procedural Transfers & Allowances: Transfer policies will be published within 7 days, and accrued allowances will be paid promptly to ensure fairness and transparency.
40-Hour Work Week Compliance: A structured system will ensure adherence to the 40-hour work week, with overtime recognized for on-call duties.
Union Dues Remittance: The County will deduct and remit union dues as required by law.
Protection Against Victimization: No doctor or union leader shall face discrimination or arbitrary transfers for participating in the strike.
Withdrawal of Pending Court Matters: Both parties will withdraw all claims, counterclaims, and contempt proceedings to restore industrial harmony.
A Victory for Unity and Collective Bargaining
This Return-to-Work Formula is not merely the end of a strike, it is a renewal of commitment to fair labour practices, professional respect, and quality healthcare.
“Your resilience has defended not only your rights but also the right of every patient to be served by a dignified, motivated, and protected healthcare worker,” said Dr. Davji Bhimji Atellah, KMPDU Secretary General.
As doctors resume duty within 24 hours, this agreement paves the way for the restoration of essential healthcare services and a stronger partnership between healthcare workers and county leadership.
When health workers are respected, healthcare works.
